A short walk from the Barrington High School campus, atop a hill just beyond the JV softball field, is where Bob Gourley worked his magic.

Over the course of four decades, the longtime throwing coach for the Eagles shared insight and instruction to hundreds of student-athletes at the weight throwing circle located on Upland Way near the town’s recycling center. 

On Monday, Nov. 1, members of the Barrington Town Council paid tribute to the recently deceased coach, and officially named that area on Upland Way “Robert Gourley Field.” 

Barrington Town Council President Michael Carroll made the motion, which carried 4-0. Mr. Carroll spoke fondly of Coach Gourley, and also invited longtime resident and former track standout Tony DeSisto to share comments. Mr. DeSisto said Coach Gourley had an impressive record of success with throwers at Barrington High School and across the state.

“He was very dedicated and good for the kids,” Mr. DeSisto said. “Not just the stars. Anyone who went through the program benefitted.”

Mr. DeSisto then suggested the council consider naming the Upland Way throwing area after Coach Gourley. The idea was warmly received and the council’s vote was unanimous.

More about Coach Gourley

Coach Gourley was selected as the Rhode Island Track Association Coach of the Year, was an inductee into the Rhode Island Interscholastic League Hall of Fame, won the Ken Warren Award for Leadership (for outstanding dedication and commitment to throwing events) from the National Throw Coaches Association, the Doug Speck Award for Excellence and Innovation, and has been recognized as New England Official of the Year by the U.S. Association of Track and Field Coaches. 

The throwers he coached over the years won state titles, national championships and have competed internationally.